Coggins Test
What is a coggins test? A coggins test is a test for horses, donkeys and mules that checks for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). A blood sample will be taken and sent to a state approved laboratory to check for EIA antibodies in the blood.
What is Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)? EIA is a viral disease that is spread by horseflies or deerflies. An insect biting an infected horse, and then biting another horse is how the disease is transmitted. It can also be transmitted to horses through unclean needles contaminated with infected blood. There is no treatment and no cure for EIA. Most horses will not survive if infected with EIA, but a percentage of them do recover, but they will always have the virus and can become ill again in stressful situations.
What are the signs of EIA? Symptoms of acute infection are fever, depression and no appetite. If the horse has acute symptoms, he will not test positive on the Coggins test for a month and a half. Symptoms of chronically infected horses are recurring acute symptoms along with weight loss, swelling in the belly, chest or legs and anemia. These horses will test positive on a Coggins. Some horses are asymptomatic and will not show any signs of EIA, but will test positve.
Do I need a Coggins Test done on my horse? Most states require a negative Coggins test on a horse before he/she can be sold, for transporting across state lines and to participate in shows, trail rides etc.. to prove that your horse is safe to be around other horses. If you plan on travelling with your horse, check with your veterinarian for your state specific laws and to see how recent a test is required. Most states require testing to be done once a year, but it can vary from state to state.
What if my horse has a positive Coggins Test? Many states have different requirements for horses with EIA. Some states require euthanasia. Other states have very strict quarantine measures, where the horse cannot have contact with any other horses. Again, check with your veterinarian for your state requirements.
What can I do to help prevent my horses from getting EIA? Keeping stalls and the barn area clean along with a good insect control program will help to keep disease spreading insects at a minimum. Throw used needles away after each use. Do not share needles among horses. If you get a new horse, make sure he has had a recent Coggins Test. If not, get him tested before turning him in with the herd.